Vista signals need for DVD drive

Published on: 06/18/06

The most important thing about the upcoming introduction of Windows Vista has nothing to do with the merits of the new Microsoft operating system.

Here's the big deal. Vista will only come on a DVD, not a CD.

Having a DVD drive on a computer — up until now — was a choice, not a requirement. Microsoft's move opens the door to other programs that will arrive only on a DVD.

If you have a new computer, or are buying one, no big deal. You have a DVD drive. It's old hat.

If you have an old PC that doesn't have one, it's time to add a drive. If you have a computer with a DVD drive that can only play but not record, it will work with Vista. But you ought to consider upgrading to one that records anyway.